Browns top-ranked defense vs Lions rushing attack in Detroit

Cleveland’s top-ranked defense, which has smothered opponents through three weeks, faces its stiffest test yet on Sunday when the Browns visit the Detroit Lions, whose multifaceted offense averaged explosive gains in a 38-point outing against Baltimore. The matchup in Detroit pits a Browns unit that leads the NFL in total defense and is allowing 57.3 rushing yards per game against a Lions attack featuring Amon-Ra St. Brown, rookie tight end Sam LaPorta and a dual running back threat in David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs.

Detroit’s ground game loomed large after piling up 224 rushing yards against the Ravens, including 151 from Montgomery, and offensive coordinator John Morton said this week that he does not think Cleveland has seen a run game like theirs yet. Myles Garrett, Cleveland’s All Pro defensive end, welcomed the comment, saying Morton is entitled to his opinion and that the game will be a battle of ideologies. Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz emphasized preparation over punditry, noting that his unit has already faced strong rushing teams and must emphasize tackling and edge protection, particularly because Detroit mixes screen passes and quick throws that...